PEORIA — Incandescent light bulbs used in houses no longer will remain on U.S. store shelves in 2014 and beyond.

An energy efficiency law passed in 2007 has been phasing out incandescent light bulbs. The latest ban prohibits manufacturing or importing 40-watt and 60-watt incandescent light bulbs. The 75-watt bulb was phased out in 2013, and the 100-watt was phased out in 2012.

Keith Rieker, manager at Nena's Do it Best Hardware in Peoria, said most customers are aware of the new laws and have taken measures in the wake of the ban.

"Pretty much everyone knows about it," Rieker said. "Some are even stocking up."

Rieker noted that the specialty incandescent bulbs — such as colored bulbs or ones used in appliances — are not banned. In its stead, LED bulbs will become the light bulb of choice for consumers, Rieker said.

The LED bulbs are dimmable and last much longer than its incandescent predecessors. Though it has always had the rap of being the more expensive light bulb option, Rieker has noticed a substantial drop in prices of the LED bulbs recently. Rieker said consumers will have an adjustment phase to the new selection of light bulbs but should save money long-term.

"The dollar per year to run is not as important in the customers mind as, 'What's it going to cost right now?'" Rieker said.

Thomas Bruch can be reached at 686-3188 or tbruch@pjstar.com. Follow him on Twitter @ThomasBruch.